Potholes and Flooded Roads Claim Lives: Experts Urge Immediate Repairs

With the rains lashing the city in recent days, flooded and pothole-ridden roads have become death traps. At least three people have reportedly lost their lives after their vehicles skidded or were swept away by waterlogged streets. In several areas, even a 15-minute spell of rain is enough to flood major roads, exposing both commuters and pedestrians to life-threatening risks.

Road safety experts are urging authorities to address the root causes behind these rain-related mishaps. “People can’t see potholes, sand, or speed breakers under flooded water. Vehicles lose balance and fall. In some cases, victims drown due to high water levels,” said Vinod Kanumala, a Hyderabad-based road safety expert. He stressed that repairing roads known to flood repeatedly could prevent many of these accidents.

Authorities have deployed teams at select hotspots, but experts argue this is not enough. In rapidly urbanizing areas, including sub-roads and colonies, no safety personnel are present. “We need signage, caution boards, silt removal, and urgent road repairs in these vulnerable spots,” said K. Srikanth, a food delivery executive from Uppal, who frequently navigates flooded stretches during peak hours.

Traffic police also advise motorists to avoid venturing through flooded roads, especially those unfamiliar with local terrain. “A rider unfamiliar with road conditions may unknowingly enter a danger zone. It’s safer to wait until water recedes,” said a traffic inspector. Citizens continue to demand urgent intervention, highlighting that timely maintenance can save lives — and prevent recurring tragedies during every monsoon.